Abklatsch van een tekening c. 1884 - 1887

This delicate transfer drawing was made by Willem Witsen. The process, known as a 'Abklatsch' in Dutch, involves taking a print from an original drawing. This technique of transfer results in a subtle, almost ghostly image. Look closely and you can see the blurred lines, and soft textures of the original. The choice of paper is also crucial, its absorbent quality allowing the transferred image to adhere, yet also influencing the final appearance through its own texture and tone. In Witsen's time, the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the art world was beginning to question traditional hierarchies. Printmaking, once seen as a lesser art form, was gaining recognition. The 'Abklatsch' process reflects this shift, challenging the notion of the unique, original artwork, and instead celebrating the beauty of reproduction. It's a reminder that the value of art lies not just in the final product, but also in the innovative processes that bring it to life.